Elektra Solar introduced its Trainer, a new two-seat craft, at this year’s Aero Expo. As reported here last year, the airplane features side-by-side seating to facilitate training, doubtless enhanced by the low noise level – 50 dB, according to the company. Based on German ultralight standard LTF-UL 2020. Compared to a “moderate rainfall noise,” the low sound level allows operation in noise protected areas and should enable easy communication between student and instructor. Safety and Performance With safety in mind, Calin Gologan, the plane’s designer, chose Geiger Engineering’s HPD50D dual motor. Putting out 50 kilowatts continuously or 70 kW peak power, the 16 kilogram (37.3 pound) unit can run on either or both rotors. Both independently controlled motors drive a 1.75 meter (5.74 foot) controllable-pitch propeller at up to 2,600 rpm. If one motor fails, the remaining unit can maintain a climb rate of 1.5 meters per second (295 feet per minute). With both motors running, the craft can climb …
